A very special memorial gathering for Stephanie Moynagh

A hand-carved bench to commemorate the life of one of East Coast Samaritans founding members was unveiled this weekend.

The bench, located on the Riverwalk, Arklow, was made in memory of Stephanie Moynagh, who is sadly missed by family, friends and fellow volunteers.

Here her friend Mary Treacy pays tribute to Stephanie and everyone who made this event so special.

On Saturday 18th June, 2022 East Coast Samaritans honoured the life of Stephanie Moynagh, one of the founding members of East Coast Samaritans in 2014. Stephanie sadly passed away on June 21st 2021 after a long illness bravely borne. Stephanie was a loving Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Sister and friend.

We all know that whenever death walks through our homes, our community and our world, it always leaves behind it a trail of tears and a deep sense of loss. That feeling is never so intense and strong as when we lose someone we desperately need. There are certain individuals in this world that we learn not only to like and to love, but to depend upon. They become a very definite factor in our lives. We look to them for leadership, we trust their judgement and we rely upon their strength of character. We have all known individuals like that, and when we lose one of them, it is a critical moment in life. Stephanie Moynagh was that kind of a person.

Stephanie’s life was a life of dedication to her family and friends; she enriched the lives of so many. Through her work with Samaritans, Stephanie gave comfort and care to so many. Stephanie was one of the most caring and kind individuals that walked through the doors of Samaritans. Her generosity and gentle spirit is a legacy that all of us at East Coast Samaritans will strive to keep alive in the years to come.

It is hoped that this bench will be a fitting tribute to the memory of a truly amazing lady.

We at East Coast Samaritans, would like to thank a fellow Volunteer and friend of Stephanie’s, Gerry O’Keefe who used his skill, time and expertise to create this beautiful seat where we can remember with pride such a truly inspirational Lady.

Thank you also to all who helped and supported this project. Thank you to Damien Byrne, Director at East Coast Samaritans for his commitment in organising this day to remember Stephanie. We thank Dublin and Waterford Branches for their ongoing support.

We also thank Arklow Tidy Towns and Arklow Town Council for their help and assistance in finding such a beautiful location where we can cherish the memory of Stephanie.

On this special day we thank Ken and Dean from The Royal Hotel Arklow for providing refreshments to all those who attended to remember our friend and Colleague Stephanie.

May Stephanie’s gentle soul rest in heavenly peace.